New Rules for Imported Electric Vehicles Take Effect This July

MITI’s tightened import rules for fully imported EVs, effective July 2026, introducing a minimum price and motor power threshold for CBU models. Published: 7 May 2026 (based on MITI’s announcement)

Car buyers eyeing a fully imported electric vehicle should take note: starting 1 July 2026, Malaysia’s Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) has tightened the rules for Completely Built-Up (CBU) EV imports.

Under the new framework, imported EVs must have a minimum value of RM200,000 and a motor output of at least 180 kilowatts. This follows the end of a four-year exemption period that had earlier supported EV adoption in the country, which lapsed on 31 December 2025.

For everyday motorists, this mainly affects the higher end of the EV market. Existing stock already in the country or in transit will still be sold under the previous rules until it runs out, so there’s no need to worry if you’ve already placed an order.

At Reliance Workshop, we’re keeping a close eye on these changes so we can advise customers accurately on what to expect if you’re considering an EV purchase or trade-in this year.

New Rules for Imported Electric Vehicles Take Effect This July

MITI’s tightened import rules for fully imported EVs, effective July 2026, introducing a minimum price and motor power threshold for CBU models. Published: 7 May 2026 (based on MITI’s announcement)

Car buyers eyeing a fully imported electric vehicle should take note: starting 1 July 2026, Malaysia’s Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) has tightened the rules for Completely Built-Up (CBU) EV imports.

Under the new framework, imported EVs must have a minimum value of RM200,000 and a motor output of at least 180 kilowatts. This follows the end of a four-year exemption period that had earlier supported EV adoption in the country, which lapsed on 31 December 2025.

For everyday motorists, this mainly affects the higher end of the EV market. Existing stock already in the country or in transit will still be sold under the previous rules until it runs out, so there’s no need to worry if you’ve already placed an order.

At Reliance Workshop, we’re keeping a close eye on these changes so we can advise customers accurately on what to expect if you’re considering an EV purchase or trade-in this year.

As a growing global business, Reliance believes performance and success begins with fixing every vehicle to a high quality, and high safety standard.

These quality standards are backed by our day to day commitment to provide excellent customer care and service.

As a growing global business, Reliance believes performance and success begins with fixing every vehicle to a high quality, and high safety standard.

These quality standards are backed by our day to day commitment to provide excellent customer care and service.